LOH #167: Thank you for helping me amid my anguish!

Hello, Ladies of the Hive Community! Today, it's my honour to participate in another contest for this week initiated by @marivic10, and it's my pleasure to answer the question:

1️⃣ Is there a person or a special moment that you want to thank for making 2023 a great year? Or could you simply leave us a few words of gratitude for this year that we leave behind?

My family, friends, and those who never gave up on me or believed in me during the year are the reasons I am thankful for everything that happened in my year 2023, both the good and the bad things that happened along the way.

And my boyfriend, Arjay, is the one I want to thank most for making my year 2023 bearable.

I was sharing this story when my mother's transition to heaven happened.

In long-term relationships, one or both partners will likely lose a loved one; understanding how to provide the best possible support for one another is essential. We have been in a relationship for about 11 years now; we have witnessed a lot of journeys in each other's families.

When something terrible happens, the world doesn't end. It is expected of us to grieve swiftly, to continue working without missing a beat, to support our families, and to move on when those close to us ask us to. I managed to support my family and teach at the same time as navigating heartbreaking grief for the first time last year. I wasn't ready.

Suddenly, I competed, and I had no idea how to play. I experienced loneliness. Looking back over the past year, I think we need to talk more freely and spend time with someone who can support us while we work through our grief and heal. We must acknowledge that grief is a personal experience and that others' simple acts of compassion and understanding can often support us as we navigate this difficult time.

Maintaining relationships with friends and family during difficult times can help you feel better, reduce stress, and make sense of all the upheaval and change.

Having him to lean on allows me to develop resilience and draw strength rather than feel alone during a difficult period.

He is always willing to listen to me without passing judgment; he doesn't need to know the solutions to my issues. Making eye contact, smiling, or giving a hug can all significantly impact my emotional state.

He consistently acknowledges the difficulty of the situation and validates my feelings. He does not attempt to downplay or ignore my issues or feelings. Furthermore, he listens to me and demonstrates empathy rather than telling me to "cheer up" or "get over it." He never fails to say things like, "This is a tough situation. I can see why you're feeling this way." and "I'm sorry you're going through this. It must be hard."

Whenever I miss my mom, he's always there, my one call away. He was always the first to put me at ease and calm down. He guided me to areas of consolation and pain relief for my heart and mind. He ensured I always ate on time and brought me some food, my go-to food when stressed.

He has been my therapist; even in the lowest points of my life, he never abandoned me. With him around, everything will become simple. I appreciate him for supporting me as I get over my everyday suffering. He continues to give me motivation to live and to maintain my strength.

"Partners who can comfort each other during distress over events outside of their relationship are statistically better able to manage conflict involving their relationship. Learning to be a comforting shoulder to cry on can help you, your partner, and your relationship thrive."

Helping one another through adversity requires effort. Everyone may experience stress, fatigue, and frustration from it. However, it can also be meaningful, gratifying, and rewarding. Your relationship may become more resilient, joyful, and strong.

Although recovering from trauma is a challenging process, it is doable with the help of loved ones. Even if you don't understand what your partner is going through, remember they are having a tough time. Give love and support, but remember to take care of yourself.